Eddie Murphy to receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor

WASHINGTON, April 9 (UPI) -- Film and TV icon Eddie Murphy is set to be presented with the 18th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in Washington this fall.

An outstanding lineup of entertainers -- to be announced at a later date -- will gather at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall to salute the Saturday Night Live standout on Oct. 18. The gala will be taped for broadcast.

"I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Kennedy Center and to join the distinguished list of past recipients of this award," the 54-year-old entertainer said in a statement Thursday, referring to Richard Pryor, George Carlin, Jay Leno, Carol Burnett and other comedy legends who were awarded the honor.

Murphy's film credits include Beverly Hills Cop, 48 Hours, Trading Places, Coming to America and the Shrek animated franchise.